THE MAYOR of Reading will be spending the night under the stars in a bid to raise awareness of homelessness this Friday (31).

Cllr Deborah Edwards will be taking part in Launchpad's Big Sleep Out to raise money for the charity and awareness of the plight of homeless people across the UK.

Launchpad is one of the Mayor's chosen charities for her year in office, and holds the annual Big Sleep Out which will see local people spending one night outside with just cardboard and a sleeping bag for comfort.

Around 120 people raised more than £40,000 for the charity at last year's event, which is used to support some of Reading's most vulnerable and disadvantaged people.

The money helps to prevent homelessness in the winter months when rough sleeping becomes even more dangerous.

Mayor Cllr Edwards said: “The Launchpad Big Sleep Out gives people a taste of what it is like to spend a night out in the elements with minimal shelter.

“I will head back to a nice warm house the next morning but there are many people who do not have that option and there are many others who are living in unsuitable accommodation or spending night after night sleeping on sofas.

“The money raised from the Big Sleep Out will help Launchpad support vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals through the winter so any amount of sponsorship people can give me through the Mayor’s charity fund page would be hugely appreciated.”

The Big Sleep Out takes place this Friday (31) in the grounds of Queen Anne's School in Caversham.

To sponsor Cllr Edwards visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Mayor-of-Reading-Charity-Fund and mentioning Big Sleep Out in the comments.